Write to Know

Sunday

Sep 27, 2009 at 2:00 AMSep 27, 2009 at 8:05 AM

Dear Write to Know: I hope some animal lover might help with a problem. In 2000, I adopted a wonderful cat from a shelter. However, in 2005, we bought a winter home in Florida, and spend five months there each year. We drive to and from, and like most cats, she HATES being in a car, so taking her with us is impossible.

Snowbird needs sitter for an 11-year-old cat

Dear Write to Know: I hope some animal lover might help with a problem. In 2000, I adopted a wonderful cat from a shelter. However, in 2005, we bought a winter home in Florida, and spend five months there each year. We drive to and from, and like most cats, she HATES being in a car, so taking her with us is impossible.

Also, we spend time on the way down at my daughter's for Thanksgiving, and on the way home, meet with friends in South Carolina, so each trip is six days long. A good friend offered to cat-sit the first winter, and when we were due to arrive home, she said she had fallen in love with the cat and couldn't she keep her. Rather than uproot the cat twice a year, I agreed.

Then, this June, my friend was hospitalized with a major medical problem. I took the cat back, assuming it was temporary. However, it proved to be serious and my friend's daughter from Iowa took her to live with her. Thus, I am facing the same problem as four years ago, needing a cat-sitter for five months or beyond.

"Misty" is now 11 years old, an indoor cat and is content as long as she has a window or slider to watch the outside world. She's very intelligent and affectionate and a great companion. Also, very spoiled and wants lots of loving and lap-sits. I have asked everyone I can think of to help me on this, with no luck.

And I don't want to consider the only alternative! I would pay for all expenses incurred. My number is 508-362-1507; cell, 508-737-9446.

J.S., Yarmouthport

Dear J.S.: Older cats can sometimes be the sweetest and most loyal of pets. You're sure to receive some calls. Let us know how things work out.

Taking a shot at finding 'Patriots' missile site

Dear Write to Know: Sitting in an open field in the north central part of the Cape stands a 'Patriot' missile painted red, white and blue, with "Go Patriots" written on it. Being an avid Patriots fan, when out-of-state visitors come, I want to show them what a true fan really is.

However, we couldn't find what we were looking for! I hope someone will tell your column where the display is located, on which road, etc., so we can add it to our list of attractions for guests. Thank you.

M.B., Yarmouthport

Dear M.B.: If we hear from readers who can provide a location ("Patriot Pride" should be noted on the envelope or e-mail subject line), we'll pass on the information.

Growing seniors' group needs conference table

Dear Write to Know: I'm writing in hopes that a business that no longer needs a large conference table seating about 16 people comfortably would like to donate it to The Brewster Housing Seniors. We usually meet about twice a week and have holiday parties.

Currently, we have a table that seats 10, and our group has been growing. We do not have space for two tables that seat 10, so a larger one would be ideal. My phone number is 508-896-0046. Thank you for printing this.

Dear Write to Know: What has happened to Andre Rieu? For many years, he appeared on PBS during "Viewer Favorites" or for special programs at holiday time. All of a sudden, we haven't heard from him and very dearly miss him and his music.

Is it possible for the station to do re-runs? So many folks miss that type of music, and we need more classical programming. Thanks for the help you have given us over the years.

E.L.B., East Sandwich

Dear E.L.B.: WGBH has not abandoned Andre Rieu, according to a spokesman at the Boston station, but his programs are usually aired during pledge periods, and ticket offers for his upcoming concerts in the area are tied in with fundraising.

Lately, there have been no new Rieu concerts, nor any scheduled in Boston, but don't give up hope yet. There may possibly be one during the December pledge period.

Glass workshop holding winter etching lessons

Dear Write to Know: I am looking for someone or some place where I could learn to do glass etching. If anyone can provide this information, it would be greatly appreciated, as I am a new widow and am looking for a hobby.

E.E.F., Cotuit

Dear E.E.F.: Samuell Day Gallery and Glass Workshop, 4039 Main St., Cummaquid, will offer a new eight-week session of classes in January, but, in the meantime, Caryn Samuell suggests you visit the workshop, located next to the post office, to see "what's going on and what's available."

Trees for Free business phone has been cut off

Dear Write to Know: Some weeks ago, you mentioned a company, Trees for Free, based in Sandwich, 508-888-3572. I called three times last month. The first time I spoke with a lady who said she'd call back in half an hour. It never happened.

On the other two calls, I left my phone number. No result. Do you know if they are still in business?

J.P., Barnstable

Dear J.P.: When we tried calling this past week, we were told the number was "temporarily disconnected." At one time, when we did make a connection, we learned from the person who answered that "we get so many calls, sometimes it takes us a while to return them."

Here's recipe to make squares bought at sale

Dear Write to Know: This summer I attended a blueberry cake sale at the Friday Club in Yarmouthport. I purchased some Lemon Blueberry Bars that were excellent, and would like to know if the person who made them would send me the recipe. Hope you can publish this request in your column.

R.B., Worcester

Dear R.B.: We can publish your request, as well as the recipe, which we have in our files:

Heat oven to 400 degrees. To make the crust, coat a 9-inch square baking dish with cooking spray. In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer on low to beat together the butter, powdered sugar and vanilla until fluffy.

Add the flour and beat just until the mixture forms small crumbs. Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Set the remaining mixture aside. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Reduce oven temperature to 350.

Meanwhile, make the filling. In a medium bowl, mix sugar, flour, lemon zest and salt. Add the eggs and lemon juice, then whisk until smooth. Spread the blueberries in an even layer over the crust. Pour the filling over the blueberries. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top.

Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the crumb topping is golden and the filling is puffed. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely. Cut into squares. Servings: 15.

No problem to replace cord in window awning

Dear Write to Know: Can you help me locate someone on the Cape who can replace the cords on roll-up awnings? We've had these many years and the cords are becoming worn. So, I'm concerned about being able to roll them up if the cord breaks. I don't know if the awnings are still being manufactured.

S.P., Hyannis

Dear S.P.: If these are window awnings, then Awnings by Peterson in South Yarmouth can replace the cords easily. Phone number is 508-394-6800.

Cape Cod peace group's mailing, Web addresses

Dear Write to Know: Am looking for the street address and phone number of Cape Codders for Peace and Justice. Can you help?

Dear Write to Know: Is there anyone out there willing to donate a laptop computer? I am a single mom, out of work on disability, and am trying to do a few things to help make ends meet. A computer would help. I do not have a vehicle, so would be unable to pick it up, but if it could be sent or delivered, that would be great. I am trying to take a real estate course and would also like to write a cookbook.

I wonder if there is an organization such as neighbors helping neighbors in my area, or someone who could help me get back on my feet somewhat. I may also be at risk of losing my home. Thank you for an help or suggestions you can provide.

P.C., Buzzards Bay

Dear P.C.: We sympathize with your situation, and will contact you if we hear from readers who may have a computer (or information) to pass on ("Laptop Needed" should be noted on replies). As for other possibilities, suggest you contact your church to see if a group there could provide the help you need.

Making arrangements to contact garden club

Dear Write to Know: Please let me know how I can contact the Village Garden Club of Dennis. The senior center there has a lovely arrangement on a table in the entrance way, but I do not have a way to get in touch with the club. Hope you can help.

S.A.T., Dennisport

Dear S.A.T.: You may contact the Village Garden Club of Dennis at P.O. Box 900, Dennis 02638. Judy Beeton is president.

NOTES TO READERS

To V.A.L., South Yarmouth: Another group that meets to do needlework is the Cape Cod chapter of the American Needlework Guild, whose meetings are held at 9:30 a.m. on the second Monday of each month at Carlton Hall, Old Bass River Road, Dennis. Reader E.S. reports that "anyone is welcome to stop by the October meeting to check it out." Cindy Kadzik (e-mail: ckadzik@comcast.net) is membership chairwoman.

To A.M., Harwich: Thanks for the information on the Tampa, Fla., firm that offers Cashmere Bouquet powder. Details are on their way to P.O., Hyannis.

To V.I. Brewster: By now, you should have received the refund check from Awning Systems, and, as you say, "the whole episode can be put to rest."

To J.W., South Yarmouth: Regarding critters in the garage, a reader recommends "Mouse Magic," which she found at Country Garden, Hyannis. She adds that "it comes in little tea bag-type packs that you put throughout the affected area and, voila!, no further problems."